The Wine Animal Verdict: Anticipation hangs in the air for this creature of Beechworth, a Chardonnay whispered to possess the hallmark elegance and intensity of Savaterre. Though not yet fully revealed, the pre-sale hints at a majestic bird of prey, poised to deliver a focused and complex experience. Expect a wine that will reward patience and careful observation.
What's in the Cage (Based on Savaterre's Reputation and 2023 Vintage Reports):
Savaterre, located in Beechworth, Victoria, is a highly acclaimed producer, particularly for its Chardonnay. 1 The 2023 vintage in Beechworth is reported to be exceptional for Chardonnay, characterized by long warm days and cool nights, allowing for slow ripening and the development of finesse and precision.
Given Savaterre's meticulous approach, expect the 2023 Chardonnay to be crafted from hand-picked fruit, fermented with indigenous yeasts, and matured in high-quality French oak for an extended period (typically around 18 months for their Estate Chardonnay). Minimal intervention will likely be employed to allow the unique terroir of their vineyard to express itself fully.
Likely Tasting Notes (Based on Savaterre's Style and the 2023 Vintage):
While specific tasting notes for the 2023 Estate Chardonnay are still emerging (given the pre-sale status), we can anticipate characteristics in line with their renowned style and the vintage:
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Nose: Expect a complex and layered nose with potential for aromas of white peach, nectarine, citrus (lemon, grapefruit), subtle struck match or flint, hazelnut, and refined oak spice (vanilla, subtle toast). Floral hints like lime blossom may also be present.
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Palate: The palate is likely to be powerful yet elegant, with a focused acidity providing structure and length. Expect intense flavors of stone fruit and citrus, integrated with complex nutty and mineral notes. The texture should be refined and potentially creamy from lees contact, leading to a long and evolving finish.
Who's it For: This pre-sale offering is for the discerning Chardonnay lover who values quality, complexity, and wines with the potential to age. Savaterre's reputation precedes it, making this a sought-after release for collectors and those who appreciate benchmark Australian Chardonnay.
Pairing Power (Anticipated): Based on Savaterre's typical Chardonnay profile, expect it to pair beautifully with:
- High-quality seafood such as lobster, scallops, and grilled white fish.
- Rich poultry dishes like roasted chicken or duck with savory sauces.
- Creamy pasta dishes with mushrooms or truffles.
- Fine-aged cheeses.
The Bottom Line (Pre-Sale Prediction): The Savaterre Chardonnay 2023 pre-sale represents an opportunity to secure what is likely to be another exceptional release from this highly regarded Beechworth producer. Given the vintage conditions and Savaterre's consistent quality, expect a Chardonnay of significant depth, complexity, and aging potential. This is a chance to acquire a future icon of Australian Chardonnay before its official release. Keep an eye out for official tasting notes closer to the release date (anticipated around April 2025).
